Do you suffer from restless nights because your partner keeps you awake with their snoring and jolting? Or is it the other way around? Regardless, it's time that you get it checked out to ensure that it's not the sign of a more serious problem called Obstructive Sleep Apnea or OSA. To find out more about this serious condition, we outline what you need to know, along with the treatment options that are available for you or your loved one.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Similar to snoring, sleep apnea is caused by a blockage of the airway. However, there are some main differences that make OSA a much more serious condition than infrequent snoring. For one, OSA is characterized by louder and more intense bursts that occur throughout the night. And it's actually a breathing disorder that can stop your breathing for up to ten seconds or more. Luckily, when the airway is blocked, the brain reacts by jolting the body awake to force you to breathe. Unfortunately, for someone who has OSA, this can happen a number of times throughout the night, preventing them from getting a proper night's sleep and leading to more serious conditions down the road.
How Is It Treated?
OSA can be treated using a machine that helps to open up the airways called a CPAP machine. However, it's not very comfortable, is often expensive, and can take a considerable amount of time to get used to.
At Kemptville Smiles Dentistry, we prefer to offer an Oral Appliance for therapy. Our appliance is similar to a retainer in that it's used to reposition the jaw slightly to help open up the airways during sleeping. And it's completely customizable, which means patients will get an appliance that is tailored to their needs.
Why Choose Kemptville Dentistry?
Our Oral Appliance Therapy is comfortable, affordable, and effective at controlling OSA. Our Sleep Apnea Appliances are carefully designed and made from premium-quality materials that are personalized to each patient. So when you choose Kemptville Dentistry, you'll get the best OSA treatment method that's available.
At Kemptville Dentistry, our team can help you or your partner finally get the full night's rest that's so imperative to your health. Contact us today at (613) 258-7373 to find out more about our Sleep Apnea Appliances and how our professional team of dentists can help assist you with your obstructive sleep patterns.